Lincoln-Way West High School celebrated a group of outstanding student-athletes who committed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. Among them, Josh Veldman, a three-year varsity football starter, stood out as he prepares to sign his National Letter of Intent to play football at Northwestern University.
“It’s an honor to celebrate Josh’s incredible achievement today,” said Lincoln-Way West Athletic Director. “Josh’s leadership, work ethic, and dedication to both academics and athletics set an example for all our student-athletes. We are proud to see him take the next step at Northwestern.”
Veldman’s journey has been one of hard work and perseverance, balancing rigorous academic commitments with a stellar football career. His coaches and peers admire his grit, passion, and the energy he brought to the field each game.
“Josh has been a true leader both on and off the field,” the Athletic Director continued. “His success is a testament to the foundation laid by his family, who have instilled in him the values of humility, respect, and hard work.”
As Veldman prepares for his next chapter, the community expressed its gratitude for his contributions to the school’s athletic program. “We’ll all be Wildcat fans now,” the Athletic Director said with a smile, referencing Veldman’s future at Northwestern.
In addition to Veldman, several other athletes committed to colleges, marking a day of pride for Lincoln-Way West.
Caroline Smith will continue her volleyball career at Drake University. Smith, who helped lead the Warriors to back-to-back regional championships, earned All-State 1st Team honors and is a back-to-back All-Conference player. She leaves behind an impressive legacy with 763 kills and 201 blocks.
Lucas Acevedo, a standout pitcher and infielder, committed to the University of Illinois-Chicago. Acevedo posted a 6-0 record on the mound last season, earning All-Area and SWSC All-Conference honors. He plans to pursue a degree in Computer Science while continuing his baseball career.
Tyler Bartley will play baseball at Rock Valley College, where he plans to study Business or Fire Science. Bartley, a versatile pitcher and infielder, credits his success to hard work and dedication.
Conor Essenberg will head to the University of Kentucky to continue his baseball career, where he will study Business. Last season, Essenberg posted a 10-2 record with 102 strikeouts, and his accomplishments earned him multiple All-State honors.
Adam Gerl has committed to the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, where he will pitch for the Rangers. Gerl finished last season with a 2.36 ERA and 31 strikeouts, and his leadership helped secure a regional championship.
Ian Hazelip, a key offensive contributor for the Warriors, committed to Roosevelt University. Hazelip, who posted a .360 batting average last season, plans to study Business while continuing his baseball career.
Anthony Vita, a pitcher and first baseman, will attend Drury University, where he plans to study Business Management. He posted a 4-0 record last season and was a key contributor to the team’s success.
Aly Kurczak, a versatile player on the softball team, committed to the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. Kurczak has been recognized for both her athletic ability and academic achievements.
Elly Decker, a captain on the volleyball team, will play at Missouri S&T. Decker, who earned Academic All-State honors and helped secure two regional championships, is known for her leadership both on and off the court.
Each of these athletes leaves behind a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and success. The Lincoln-Way West community looks forward to watching them continue to shine at the collegiate level.